Fair helps City of Kinston customers discover money-saving tips

By Junious Smith III / Special to The Free Press

Published: Wednesday, May 8, 2013 at 08:17 PM.

After going through the display and receiving additional information from Williams, people were given free energy efficiency kits. Each box was equipped with a DVD containing energy-saving advice, a low-flow shower head, an air filter whistle, foam sealant and four fluorescent lamps, along with thermostats for the house, refrigerator and hot water heater.

“This was a very informative tour and I’m hoping to use insulation and change windows within the next few months,” Kinston resident Josephine Harper said. “I have family in Maryland, Ohio and D.C. who can’t believe how much money I’m currently spending on utility bills here in Kinston. Any changes you can make to lower your bill should be used and everyone could use this information.”

Energy audits were also a subject touched upon for those at the fair. A free audit can be applied for and is vital when it comes to figuring out how well a home conserves or maintains energy, along with helping costumers identify areas of lost energy.

“Last year, I had high light bills and realized how important saving was after I had an energy audit,” Kinston resident Chevell Becton said. “This is a very good event and I’m here this year so I can pick up more information for friends of mine who could use it.”

For anyone searching for ways to trim a few dollars off his or her utility bill, go to KinstonPublicServices.com or contact Williams at 252-939-3283.

Kinston City Hall hosted a money saving program on Wednesday, as the city’s Public Services department held its semi-annual Energy Fair.

City residents were treated to free giveaways and refreshments while learning methods on conserving energy and gathering information on the new Energy Efficiency Credit Program (EECP).

“We hold energy fairs twice a year during the spring and fall,” Information and Resource Specialist Sheri Williams said. “We want to get a jump on those time periods because those are the most expensive seasons when it comes to energy.”

Electricians from Kinston Public Services had displays for customers showing the myriad of tactics people could use as a means to save energy at home.

“I’ve been an electrician for about 15 years and would give people energy saving tips on the job,” Earl Heath said. “This is my second year at this fair teaching energy efficiency and I’m glad to have the opportunity to assist even more.”

This year, Kinston Public Services introduced the EECP. Through the program, customers of Kinston Public Services have the opportunity to receive credit by using appliances such as electric water heaters and freezers with the Energy Star symbol. The incentive program allows the city to reduce overall energy consumption, while encouraging Kinston electric customers to use products that don’t require as much power.

“Every little bit helps,” Williams said. “Before I started working with the city, I was oblivious to how much energy I was using like anyone else. By doing a lot of the things we teach at these energy fairs, I’ve learned that it’s a lot cheaper.”

After going through the display and receiving additional information from Williams, people were given free energy efficiency kits. Each box was equipped with a DVD containing energy-saving advice, a low-flow shower head, an air filter whistle, foam sealant and four fluorescent lamps, along with thermostats for the house, refrigerator and hot water heater.

“This was a very informative tour and I’m hoping to use insulation and change windows within the next few months,” Kinston resident Josephine Harper said. “I have family in Maryland, Ohio and D.C. who can’t believe how much money I’m currently spending on utility bills here in Kinston. Any changes you can make to lower your bill should be used and everyone could use this information.”

Energy audits were also a subject touched upon for those at the fair. A free audit can be applied for and is vital when it comes to figuring out how well a home conserves or maintains energy, along with helping costumers identify areas of lost energy.

“Last year, I had high light bills and realized how important saving was after I had an energy audit,” Kinston resident Chevell Becton said. “This is a very good event and I’m here this year so I can pick up more information for friends of mine who could use it.”

For anyone searching for ways to trim a few dollars off his or her utility bill, go to KinstonPublicServices.com or contact Williams at 252-939-3283.